Dear Neighbor,

I want to update you on where things stand with the state budget. Under Michigan law, the Legislature was required to pass a full budget by July 1. Unfortunately, that deadline came and went without agreement.

If the Legislature fails to pass a budget by Sept. 30, a partial government shutdown could ensue. While I remain hopeful, with the governor’s office already planning for all contingencies, I want to be transparent and share information with you. Please read on.

Where We Are on The Budget

After months of delay, on Aug. 26, House Republicans finally unveiled their proposal, House Bill 4706. In my opinion, instead of meeting the moment — as families face rising costs on everything from groceries to prescription medications — their budget falls short. Democrats were given less than an hour to review an 800-page proposal before being asked to vote.

The plan they put forward would slash billions from critical programs: nearly $4 billion from Medicaid and behavioral health, more than $1 billion from the Department of Health and Human Services and hundreds of millions from food assistance. These aren’t abstract numbers — they represent the health care, meals and community support that children, seniors and working families depend on. Calling this “waste, fraud and abuse” is simply wrong, in my view. Health care is not waste. Food assistance is not fraud. Programs that keep families safe are not abuse.

Simply put, I believe this budget undermines the very fabric of what Michigan can and should be: a place where families can grow, thrive and build a future. A budget should reflect our values, but I believe this proposal abandons Michiganders instead of preparing us for the future.

At a time of deep division in politics, we need leaders who stand up for the people they were elected to serve. I take that responsibility seriously. As I experience this, this process has been long and frustrating — and it’s not over yet. But I will continue to fight for you and your family. You deserve affordable health care, food on the table, clean air and water, and safe, vibrant neighborhoods. That’s the Michigan I believe in, and that’s the Michigan I will keep fighting for.

The budget passed by House Republicans is now headed to the Senate. However, negotiations have stalled. The Senate Majority Leader recently noted that House Republicans and Senate Democrats remain divided on key issues such as funding for roads, schools and state departmental staff.

The governor’s office has already announced that contingency planning has begun in case the Legislature fails to pass a budget by Sept. 30. In her latest address, the governor made clear she cannot support the House majority’s proposal as written, while the House speaker expressed confidence this week that a shutdown can be avoided.

While I remain hopeful for progress, I am also preparing realistically for all possible outcomes.

Why the Budget Matters

As negotiations continue, here’s what’s at stake if a budget isn’t passed in time:

  • Schools: State aid payments to K-12 schools, colleges and universities could be delayed, putting classrooms and student services at risk.
  • Families: Free school meals, child care support and food assistance could be disrupted.
  • Local Communities: Cities and counties depend on state funds for police, fire and public works. Delays could strain those services.
  • Roads & Travel: Road construction and rest area services may pause until lawmakers approve a budget.
  • Parks: State parks and recreation areas could temporarily close, hurting families and local tourism.

In past shutdowns, essential services — like state police, corrections and health and safety programs — have continued. But we also know schools, small businesses and local governments suffer when stability is lost.

My Commitment to You

I am focused on keeping Michigan healthy and moving forward. That means working with my colleagues to:

  • Pass a responsible, balanced budget on time.
  • Protect seniors, veterans and families from harmful cuts.
  • Support small businesses and local governments with stable funding.

Michigan families deserve certainty, not disruption. I will always put our community first.

Looking Ahead

The coming eight days will be critical for Michigan’s future. While challenges remain, I want you to know that I am fighting to make sure the final budget reflects the values of our community: protecting families, investing in schools and keeping our economy strong.

I remain cautiously hopeful that we can come together to pass a responsible budget that avoids disruption and puts the people of Michigan first. Please reach out to my office with any questions or concerns; my team and I are here to help.

In service,

Amos O’Neal
State Representative
House District 94